The neighbourhood
The cottage is perfectly placed in the stunning old or ‘higher’ town of Minehead and within walking distance of a selection of pubs and restaurants. For a day at the seaside, head to Minehead Beach which is about 5 minutes away by car or 15 minutes on foot.
Exmoor National Park sits across the borders of Somerset and North Devon. Exmoor itself is a little-known national park, which means it is rarely crowded, even in the summer. It offers a huge variety of landscapes and sights, from picturesque villages, rugged coastlines and moors to stately castles and fossil-filled beaches. If you are feeling energetic, take a walk from Porlock Weir to England’s smallest church at Culbone, or trek up to the summit of Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor. From both points, you can enjoy amazing, far-reaching views across the surrounding countryside and the dramatic coastline of the Bristol Channel.
If you are looking for a little bit more life, the charming village of Dunster with its medieval heritage, winding cobbled streets and thatched cottages is just a 10-minute drive – or a lovely coastal walk. There are plenty of shops, tea rooms and galleries to peruse on the historical high street. Sitting above the village, Dunster Castle is owned by the National Trust, and a trip will include an interesting country home with a subtropical garden and a working watermill set in gorgeous countryside. There are also numerous organised events throughout the year including archery, plays and Easter egg hunts.
Other attractions in the area include the West Somerset Steam Railway and the iconic water-powered cliff railway that connects the fishing village of Lynmouth and the Victorian village of Lynton perched 500 feet above.
Not too far from Lynton is the Valley of Rocks which can be accessed on a lovely walk incorporating the South West Coast Path.
Getting around
A car is recommended for travelling to the property and ease of getting around. There is one on-site parking space on a driveway shared with Sweet Shop Cottage.
Guests will receive a free copy of ‘The Little Book of Walks’ which has 12 Exmoor-based walks, plus recommendations of places to visit and where to eat.